Magnolia Nabs Tribeca Doc "Jiro Dreams of Sushi"

Ahead of its North American premiere tomorrow at the Tribeca Film Festival, Magnolia Pictures has acquired North American rights to David Gelb's directorial debut, "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," a documentary that about the life and work of master sushi chef Jiro Ono. The company plans for a theatrical release later this year.

Ahead of its North American premiere tomorrow at the Tribeca Film Festival, Magnolia Pictures has acquired North American rights to David Gelb's directorial debut, "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," a documentary that about the life and work of master sushi chef Jiro Ono. The company plans for a theatrical release later this year.

New York, NY – April 20, 2011 – The Wagner/Cuban Company's Magnolia Pictures announced today they have acquired North American rights to JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI, a gorgeous documentary about the life and work of master sushi chef Jiro Ono. The directorial debut of David Gelb, JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI had its world premiere at the Berlinale, and makes its North American premiere this Thursday, April 21st, at the Tribeca Film Festival. Magnolia is planning a theatrical release for the film later this year.Jiro Ono is the 85-year-old chef at Sukiyabashi Jiro, a legendary Tokyo restaurant with three Michelin stars and ten highly coveted seats. The film rapturously documents the master at work, and the complex relationship between Jiro and Yoshikazu, his son and the heir to Sukiyabashi Jiro. JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI is a mouthwatering love letter to sushi, and a moving testament to the beauty of family, tradition and the pursuit of perfection in one’s work.

“JIRO DREAMS OF SUSHI teaches invaluable life lessons about honor, dedication, and the philosophy of perfectionism, but it’s also the most scrumptious and appetizing film you’ll see all year. Foodies, prepare to be indulged,” said Magnolia SVP Tom Quinn. “David Gelb is an exciting new talent, and we’re happy to be welcoming him to the Magnolia family.”

The film was produced by Kevin Iwashina of Preferred Content and Tom Pellegrini. Matthew Weaver was the Executive Producer. The deal was negotiated by Magnolia SVP Tom Quinn with Kevin Iwashina of Preferred Content on behalf of the filmmakers. Fortissimo Film Sales is handling international sales.